The National Weather service has issued a Tsunami advisory for Santa Monica, as well as all surrounding areas. In fact, most parts of the United States West Coast, from California, Oregon, Washington, and all the way up to Canada and Alaska stand on watch. However, Hawaii stands in the most dangerous path of the ripples rushing forward from Chili’s massive 8.8 earthquake.
A tsunami advisory means that a tsunami capable of producing strong currents or waves dangerous to persons in or very near the water is imminent or expected. Significant or widespread inundation is not expected for areas under an advisory.
However, the LA Times has reported that LA County Fire Officials are not issuing warnings for people to stay off beaches because 3 ft waves are all that is anticipated at this point. But harbors could see a little bit more turbulence, the Times reported.
“There’s just a heightened awareness right now,” Ron Corpus, an ocean lifeguard specialist in Hermosa Beach, told the LA Times. “We’re making sure engine bays are open, and staging equipment if we need to evacuate people if we have to.”
The National Weather Service advises everyone to move out of the water, off the beaches and out of harbors and marinas. Persons in low-lying areas should be alert to instructions from their local emergency officials. Evacuations will only be ordered by emergency response agencies.
Significant or widespread inundation is not expected for areas under an advisory. Currents may be hazardous to swimmers, boars and coastal structures and may continue to be for several hours after the initial wave’s arrival.
Along with the tsunami advisory issued at 1:05 p.m., Santa Monica and parts of Southern California are also under a Flood Advisory and a High Surf Advisory from the rain storms also moving through the area.
The National Weather Service said it will have continuous updates every 60 minutes or sooner if the situation warrants. The tsunami message will remain in effect until further notice.
For more information, visit the National Weather Service at http://www.weather.gov/
